Leather Paring Basics: the Scharfix

The versatile Scharfix paring machine can be used to do overall thinning on a larger piece of leather to cover an entire book or spine; pare smaller pieces very thin for use as inlays, onlays, or labels; or pare at a bevel for turn-ins.

This workshop will provide a complete orientation to the machine, adjustments, and useful hardware store accessories. The demonstration will emphasize both general use and how to use the machine to pare turn-ins for a full leather bidning.

Students will not be making a specific book or project in this course, rather they are encouraged to practice paring along with the instructor during the demonstration. The workshop will provide a complete explanation of this useful tool and more confidence in using it. 

Students should be familiar with the process of preparing a text block for tradtional leather binding. Ages 18 and up.

Supplies - If students will not be paring along with Karen, they don't need any supplies:

• Scharfix
• A supply of double-sided razors
• Vegetable tanned goat skin prepared for bookbinding - 
  • Talas
  • Siegel Leather
  • Pergamena
  • Hollanders